Agenda item

Robin Crofts provided a verbal update:

Robin noted that Cambridge Education is going through a review process relating to Raising Achievement, SEN and services for pupils with AEN, Access, Services to Schools, Early Years and Children’s Centres and Business Support.

Robin reported the review has taken place over the last few months and moved to a position where Cambridge Education has generated initial recommendations and they are supported in principle by the Local Authority, and are now into the next phase of sharing with team members.

Robin reported it has been discussed at SSEF and the intention is that it would be useful to set up a small group to focus on areas of the recommendations from the review and invite headteachers and stakeholders to discuss in more detail.

Process of review:

• Sharing with teams
• Set up stakeholder groups
• Refine the recommendations and take back to Local Authority in April / May
• If any big issues arise it will need to go to Cabinet at the beginning of July

Initial implementation May to September.

Overarching issues:

• A more holistic approach to service delivery
• For services to be better integrated internally, particularly with social care around early help.
• Re-shaping of services
• Improving quality, efficiency and effectiveness
• Developing and expanding traded services

Maggie Stacey noted it was difficult for schools to budget when costs are unknown, and to assist with accountability it was important to have up to date service level agreements (SLAs) in place.  Robin reported they are not looking at fundamental changes but refinement of services. He noted that SLAs could be circulated in draft form to provide earlier information.

Nicky Willis requested clarity about what is statutory and what is non-statutory and what is available for maintained schools and for academies. Robin Crofts confirmed that updated SLAs will include this detail.

Tony Smith confirmed that the LA is continuing to retain the SEN statutory elements. 

Robin Crofts referred to slides that were shared with the Local Authority. Robin to share these slides with the Forum after going through steps with staff internally.